大哥
daai6 go1
The English phrase "big brother" is translated into Cantonese as 大哥 (daai6 go1).
大哥 refers to an older brother or a man who is treated with respect as an older brother. Beyond biological siblings, it is used to address a man who is a leader or a person of high status in a social group or gang.
What does it mean word for word?
The term is composed of 大 (daai6), meaning 'big' and 哥 (go1), meaning 'older brother'.
Which one should you use?
While 大哥 refers to the eldest brother, 二哥 (ji6 go1) is used specifically for the second eldest brother in a family.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Calling a stranger 大哥 is a common, slightly informal way to get a man's attention or show friendly respect, similar to 'big brother' or 'boss' in English.
How do you pronounce it?
daai6 go1
Did you know?
- In Cantonese, the concept of 'brotherhood' extends to 義兄 (ji6 hing1), a 'sworn brother' who is not blood-related but is treated with the same respect as a biological 大哥.
- In Cantonese cinema and pop culture, 大哥 is the quintessential title for a triad boss, representing a paternalistic loyalty where the leader provides protection in exchange for absolute obedience.
- In Cantonese slang, the term can sometimes be used ironically to mock someone who is trying too hard to act like a leader or a tough guy.
Examples in context
- 佢係我大哥。keoi5 hai6 ngo5 daai6 go1.He is my big brother.
- 大哥，早晨！daai6 go1, zou2 san4!Big brother, good morning!
- 我大哥好熱心。ngo5 daai6 go1 hou2 jit6 sam1.My big brother is very kind-hearted.
Example conversation
At a family gathering in a living room.
- 志強 Chi Keung美玲，你大哥返嚟未？mei5 ling4, nei5 daai6 go1 faan1 lai4 mei6?Mei Ling, has your big brother arrived yet?
- 美玲 Mei Ling佢啱啱先到。keoi5 ngaam1 ngaam1 sin1 dou3.He just arrived.
- 志強 Chi Keung佢今日好精神。keoi5 gam1 jat6 hou2 zing1 san4.He looks very energetic today.
- 美玲 Mei Ling係呀，佢好開心。hai6 aa3, keoi5 hou2 hoi1 sam1.Yes, he is very happy.
